"Certainly, Excellency; we are early birds here, though in these times there are few travellers along the road, more's the pity."
"Ah! Is there any news of the armies hereabouts?"
"Why yes. Only yesterday—so it is said—the Elector of Bavaria crossed the river at Ulm, and the Prince of Baden, who 'tis to be hoped will beat him, stands somewhat higher up at Ehingen across the mountains yonder."
"You have not been troubled yourself by the soldiers?"
"Never a whit, Excellency. And I trust I never shall be. They march, you see, along the rivers, and my little place is out of their route. You are travelling far, mein Herr?"
"Not a great distance," replied Harry, thinking it prudent to give no information. The landlord made no attempt to press him, but kept up a desultory conversation until he had finished his supper.
"I will go and take a look at my horse, and then turn in."
He went out to the stable, and noticed that the second horse was gone.
"Your friend the farmer has gone home then?" he said to the ostler.
"Yes, Excellency, some time ago."